catching a high ball

Question
I'm a coach, busy with a presentation on catching a high ball.  Could you please help me with some information on this subject.

Answer
Hi Hendrik,

I will try to keep it as simple as I can.

The player should;

Call for the ball
Make sure they are running /moving forward onto the ball. If not it should be called away or left for a player in a better position to take the catch.

Body position should be side on - parallel to the side line. This means the chances of a knock on are reduced. If the ball is flubbed it will probably bounce back or sideways.

Wide stance, knees bent, keep feet moving

Eye on the ball

Hands open, fingers splade

Elbows slightly together

Supporting the catcher: a player who is not in a position to catch the ball should come into position to either clean up a flubbed ball/ bounce or to take a pass from the catcher. The support player is best to be on the front side of the catcher approaching from a deep position to be able to run on the ball. The support player needs to communicate his position to the catcher.